Small cell cancer of the lung is a subtype of lung cancer, which is different from non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is much more common and accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancers. The two types can be distinguished based on the way they look under the microscope. They also behave differently and are treated with different modalities that can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. The best way to know which cancer you have is to ask your doctor and look at the pathology report.